Male' Maldives: Road Recreation Club (RRC) emerged as the 2025 Club Maldives Cup champions, defeating STO Recreation Club in a pulsating 7–5 final to lift the prestigious title for the second time in their history.
The victory marked a remarkable comeback for RRC, who last won the competition in 2021 but fell short in the finals of the last two editions against Club WAMCO. On the other hand, four-time champions STO RC made their long-awaited return to the final after nearly a decade, their last appearance dating back to 2016.
The final, played in a charged and festive atmosphere, lived up to its billing with end-to-end action and relentless intensity.
RRC showcased their attacking dominance early on, winning most duels and making the most of their scoring opportunities. Ali Shamis (Thoppey) and Ahmed Aflaaz both netted twice, while Adam Nasih (Aadhanna), Mohsen Montazemi, and an unfortunate own goal from STO goalkeeper Mohamed Zuhal sealed the win for RRC.
STO fought valiantly throughout the match, led by a brilliant performance from Ismail Easa (Messi), who struck a hat-trick. Mohamed Imran and Iranian import Ali Khodadadi added one goal each, keeping their side in contention until the final whistle.
However, RRC goalkeeper Mohamed Lufsan (Puff) was in superb form, producing crucial saves that denied STO’s repeated attempts to level the score.
The triumph was especially meaningful for RRC, who had defeated STO 1–0 in the opening match of this year’s tournament, a result that foreshadowed the final showdown. Following that early setback, STO went on a remarkable run, beating several top contenders including defending champions Club WAMCO, but their resurgence ultimately fell just short in the final.
At the post-match awards, RRC’s Ahmed Aflaaz was named King of the Tournament, capping off a sensational season. The young star achieved a rare feat, becoming the only player in Club Maldives Cup history to have previously won the Most Promising Player award, a recognition he earned last year while representing Maldivian SR.
Joining Aflaaz among the tournament’s Top Five Players were teammates Ibrahim Aswadh (Gabey) and Mohamed Lufsan (Puff), alongside STO’s Ali Khodadadi and Ali Haisham (Chumpu).
Shanan Rashad and Adam Nasih (Aadhanna) shared the Top Scorer award with nine goals each, while RRC’s head coach Ismail Shareef (Isse) was honored with the Master of Futsal (Best Coach) award for leading his side to glory.
With this thrilling victory, Kings Cup champions, RRC reaffirmed their place among the country’s elite futsal clubs, combining teamwork, tactical brilliance, and attacking flair to reclaim the Club Maldives Cup and close out an unforgettable season in style.
STO RC received the Fair Play Team award, Ibrahim Nadad (Kudatte) was named Fair Player, and Maldivian SR’s Mohamed Abdulla (Mode) was recognized as the Most Promising Player of the tournament.
The “Fandiyaaru Awards” for the Top Five Referees were presented to Fahumee, Muneer, Ahmed Hassan, Faiz, and Ameen, recognizing their professionalism and consistency throughout the competition.
